New Fiction (Press, 11 April 1964)

Lesley Styles' novel "The Outer Gate," published in 1964, explores the life of John Peters, a gifted yet insecure artist navigating the complexities of love and self-identity. The narrative begins in Queensland before transitioning to Chelsea, London, and then back to Australia. John is introduced as a pioneering artist whose talents go largely unrecognised, except by a select few. After being rescued from a challenging life in Melbourne, he settles in Surfer’s Paradise, where he becomes infatuated with Sue Garrick, a successful advertising agent. Their intense romance ultimately crumbles when John learns of Sue's infidelity. Unable to grasp her belief in separating physical love from emotional loyalty, he ends the relationship and takes a job as a stoker on a cargo ship to England. In London, John befriends fellow artist Paul Dane while living in a shared studio flat. Although heartbroken and unable to create art, John immerses himself in the vibrant artistic community, encountering various characters that expand his worldview. Through a journey of personal growth and a brief affair in Spain, he reassesses his views on love and fidelity, maturing in the process. Styles’ prose is praised for its simplicity and emotional depth, making "The Outer Gate" a compelling exploration of love and artistic ambition. G. M. Glaskin’s "Flight To Landfall" presents a different narrative focused on Mrs Van Dooren, who brings diamonds to town, sparking rumours of hidden riches in her remote settlement. An author, reluctantly investigating these claims, discovers the stunning beauty of Landfall and hears the story of its past involving Fiona Scott-Fraser, who escapes from Singapore before Japanese occupation. She and others face dire circumstances in the wilderness after missing evacuation. The group dynamics reveal the best and worst of human nature as they struggle for survival in harsh conditions. The tale unfolds with challenges leading to personal transformation and profound consequences, ultimately showcasing the dialogue between human ambition and the enduring beauty of the land. Martha Wiley Emmett's “A Shadow Backwards” delves into profound themes of sex, death, and mental turmoil. It narrates the experiences of Jane Thompson, a mother grappling with her introspective nature following a miscarriage. The story intricately weaves her internal battle for sanity with that of Roger Rutherford, a man seeking artistic success but finding it elusive. Jane’s journey toward recovery is marked by physical and emotional pain, contrasting with Roger’s more public struggle that leads to his decline. The novel confronts uncomfortable topics with raw honesty, compelling readers to engage with the harsh realities faced by its characters while delivering a thoughtful reflection on human resilience amid despair. These three novels present diverse explorations of human experience, emotional turmoil, and artistic expression, capturing the essence of the post-war literary landscape in 1964.

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